Our brand new Dirty Dozen feature fires twelve mixed questions at a range of Off-Road racers.
Images courtesy of Kieran Lewis
The first racer into the hot seat is 19-year-old Pro Motocrosser Taylor Hammal who had a stand out 2019 season with the Rob Hooper Racing Yamaha Motocross team.
So let’s delve into the questions…
Dirt Hub: Do you have a Pre-Race Playlist you listen too, and if so name a couple of tracks that are on it?
Taylor: Um no not really a set playlist, but I do listen to music when I get changed before a race, just whatever I’m feeling, mainly rap.
DH: When was the last time you cried?
Taylor: Probably when me and my dad last argued over riding ?. Yeah, I’m pretty sensitive.
DH: What is your favourite inspirational quote?
Taylor: I really like the quote from Conor McGregor that said “we’re not here to take part, we’re here to take over” just because he’s so funny and doesn’t care, but also so confident in himself which I need to try and be when I’m out on the track.
DH: Do you have any weird suspicions or pre-race rituals?
Taylor: Yeah when I’m getting changed before a race I always put the left sock, glove, knee braces and boot on first. I really don’t know why.
DH: What drives you most to get up in the morning and go training?
Taylor: Honestly, absolutely nothing motivates me to get up in the mornings ?, but I am really motivated to train which I do regularly and get it done. I like the feeling afterwards knowing you’ve done it and it helps me believe I’m getting better and stronger. I hate the feeling going to a race knowing I didn’t go for that extra run or something and it shows on the track so that’s why I train.
DH: If you didn’t race what sport would you play?
Taylor: I would probably be a sheep like everyone else and play football. I am really not good at anything else other than riding my bike
DH: What is your biggest Phobia?
Taylor: I have a massive phobia of chickens, but also most animals that have wings. And I’m not so keen on heights.
DH: Who is your biggest sporting idol and why?
Taylor: In motocross, I really look up to Jorge Prado. Mainly because I used to race with him, and we would play on our bike in between races, which shows he’s really humble even though he is the best. Also, he has the sickest style on a bike.
DH: Where do you see yourself in five years time?
Taylor: I would like to be doing motocross as my full-time job and have been successful in winning championships, starting off with the British, then the world. That’s the goal like everyone else.
DH: What is your all-time favourite movie?
Taylor: Childish but I really liked Monsters Inc. I like the old films that I grew up watching like the first Toy Story. I do also like the Wolf of Wall Street.
DH: Who has had the biggest impact on your career?
Taylor: Obviously my family, especially my Dad and Grandad for all the money they’ve put in and haven’t got anything in return just yet. I am hoping to change that. On the riding side, I would say Rob (Hooper) has helped me the most so far in terms of just having confidence in myself which I was majorly lacking.
DH: What is your philosophy on life?
Taylor: I really don’t have one, to be honest apart from just taking every day as it comes because anything can happen and just enjoy every opportunity you get because it could be your last.
